The Washington Commanders opened the doors of their newly branded BigBear.ai Training Center in Ashburn, Virginia, to host a series of youth football clinics that will run throughout June, inviting young athletes from the surrounding region to learn from NFL professionals.
Head coach Dan Quinn and offensive assistant Wes Welker joined a team of assistants to lead the sessions, offering hands‑on coaching tips, film breakdowns and discussions on situational play and safe tackling techniques that emphasize player health and safety.
The program also created a networking platform for coaches from the District of Columbia, Maryland and Virginia, allowing them to exchange ideas and best practices in a collaborative environment.
A Weekend of Competition and Community
The following weekend the clinic expanded with a Fastest Man competition, a seven‑on‑seven tournament and a Big Man Challenge, giving participants access to high‑quality helmets and a competitive yet supportive atmosphere.
Local high school coaches such as Michael Nesmith of Paint Branch High School and Dunbar High School’s Maurice Vaughn praised the instruction, noting the sessions were both educational and inspiring as they prepare for the 2026 preseason.
Beyond the on‑field work, the clinics aim to bolster high school football programming across the Mid‑Atlantic, encouraging young athletes to pursue the sport with confidence and skill.
Organizers say the initiative reflects a broader commitment to grassroots development, with plans to extend the clinics to additional regions and to incorporate mentorship components that connect youth players with former professionals.
The collaboration with USA Football further underscores the project’s national relevance, linking local efforts to a wider network of youth sports resources.